Of the many film adaptations of “A Christmas Carol,” one ranks as the clear favorite of critics: 1951’s “Scrooge,” starring Alastair Sim. But there are also more modern and kid-friendly versions that are highly rated. Here’s how you can see the top 5 Christmas Carol movies on TV.
Best Christmas Carol Movies
The best movie version of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” is, by most accounts, “Scrooge,” a British production from 1951 starring Scottish actor Alastair Sim.
“Scrooge” is ranked as the number 1 adaptation by Collider, and The Wrap, and other review sites, with Sim being credited as the definitive Scrooge.
“Alastair Sim might not be the most famous actor to have played Scrooge, but he’s still the best in this, the definitive “A Christmas Carol.” Known mostly for his stage roles, he brings an extra depth to the role, and the most convincing joy to the reformed miser,” says The Wrap.
“The performances, music, and lighting in Scrooge all hit the mark, and the special effects are surprisingly well-executed for a film of its age,” says Collider.
The London Times gives Scrooge a perfect five-star rating and says, “Alastair Sim is Scrooge. It’s that simple. On film, at least, he has never been bettered. His Dickens antihero is definitive, a cynical brute who nonetheless seems to be hiding tiny glimmers of kindness behind those huge, sad and soulful eyes.”
How to See Scrooge
“Scrooge” was broadcast regularly on American TV during the 1970s and 1980s, but is rarely broadcast today. It is not included in Turner Classic Movies’ Christmas Marathon nor is it available for free streaming from any of the major services.
However, you can stream the film on TV for free from Plex or Tubie, which are free, ad-supported streaming services. You can stream the film anytime at:
More “Christmas Carol” Movies
Here are the rest of the top 5 versions of “A Christmas Carol, according to The Wrap, and a link to where you can view them.
- Number 2: “The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)” starring Michael Caine. Available on Disney+
- Number 3: “A Christmas Carol (1984)” starring George C. Scott. Available on Hulu, The Roku Channel and Tubi
- Number 4: “A Christmas Carol (1999)” starring Patrick Stewart. Not available for free streaming but you can rent it from Amazon Prime Video.
- Number 5: “Scrooged (1988)”, starring Bill Murray. Available on Amazon Prime Video and Paramount+ .
Trailers are below.
